The Maple Leafs are looking for forward help and could get it from this former Bruin.
Now that we are almost halfway through July, most of the NHL's top free agents are off the board. While this is the case, there are still some solid players available for the taking.
One of them is former Boston Bruins forward James van Riemsdyk. After posting 11 goals, 38 points, and a plus-7 rating in 71 games, JVR showed that he can still be a serviceable top-nine forward at this juncture of his career. Because of this, he should be able to find a new home before the start of the season if he elects to continue his playing career.
When considering potential suitors for van Riemsdyk, one club that could make sense is the Toronto Maple Leafs. Their current roster clearly needs one more winger, especially after losing Tyler Bertuzzi this offseason. If signed, van Riemsdyk would give them another solid option for their bottom six.
Given the Maple Leafs' current cap situation, they will likely need to settle for a bargain free-agent forward if they hope to add to their roster. van Riemsdyk fits that description, so a reunion between the winger and Toronto could make sense.
van Riemsdyk, 35, previously played six seasons with the Maple Leafs, where he had 154 goals and 294 points in 413 games.
Nevertheless, with the Maple Leafs needing more offense, it could be worthwhile for them to make a push for van Riemsdyk. On a cheap one-year deal, he could be a solid, low-risk addition for them.
